Have you noticed that your Windows computer isn’t as fast as it used to be? Programs take longer to open, boot times increase, and even simple tasks feel sluggish. While many people think they need to buy a new computer or upgrade their hardware, that’s not always the case.
One of the most overlooked features is Adjust for Best Performance in Windows Performance Options. This setting disables unnecessary visual effects and animations, allowing your computer to dedicate more system resources to applications and everyday tasks.
Windows includes several built-in features that can significantly improve performance when configured correctly. In this guide, you’ll learn how this feature works, how to enable it, its benefits, potential drawbacks, and additional tips to make your Windows PC run faster.
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Why Does Windows Slow Down?
Over time, Windows computers naturally become slower due to several reasons:
- Too many startup programs
- Unnecessary background applications
- Visual effects consuming system resources
- Low storage space
- Fragmented hard drives (HDDs)
- Outdated drivers
- Temporary and junk files
- Malware or unwanted software
Many users immediately think they need more RAM or a faster processor. While hardware upgrades can help, optimizing Windows often delivers noticeable improvements without spending money.
The Overlooked Feature: Adjust for Best Performance
Windows includes a setting called Adjust for Best Performance under Performance Options. By default, Windows enables various animations, shadows, transparency effects, and visual enhancements to create a modern appearance. Although these effects look attractive, they also consume CPU, GPU, and memory resources.
When you switch to Adjust for Best Performance, Windows disables these unnecessary visual effects, making the operating system feel much more responsive, especially on older computers.
How to Enable It
Follow these simple steps:
- Press Windows + S.
- Search for View Advanced System Settings.
- Open it.
- Under Performance, click Settings.
- Select Adjust for Best Performance.
- Click Apply.
- Click OK.
- Restart your computer.
That’s it.
Your PC should now feel smoother during multitasking, file browsing, and opening applications.
What Changes After Enabling This Feature?
When enabled, Windows disables:
- Window animations
- Fade effects
- Shadow effects
- Transparent menus
- Smooth scrolling animations
- Taskbar animations
- Thumbnail animations
- Visual transitions
The overall appearance becomes simpler, but performance improves because Windows uses fewer resources.
Who Benefits the Most?
This setting is especially useful for:
- Older laptops
- Budget desktops
- Systems with 4GB–8GB RAM
- Computers using HDD storage
- Office PCs
- Student laptops
- Entry-level gaming PCs
High-end computers may not experience dramatic improvements because they already have enough processing power.
Performance Improvements You May Notice
Users often report:
- Faster startup
- Quicker application launches
- Improved multitasking
- Reduced lag
- Better File Explorer performance
- Faster switching between programs
- More responsive desktop
The exact improvement depends on your hardware configuration.
Advantages
Completely Free
No software purchase is required.
Built Into Windows
No third-party utilities are needed.
Safe to Use
This feature only changes visual settings.
Easy to Reverse
You can restore the default appearance anytime.
Better Productivity
Less waiting means more efficient work.
Possible Downsides
Although useful, there are some trade-offs.
Less Attractive Interface
Animations and transparency disappear.
Older Appearance
Windows may look more like previous versions.
Minor Difference on Powerful PCs
Modern systems with fast CPUs and SSDs may notice only small improvements.
More Ways to Speed Up Windows
Disable Startup Apps
Open Task Manager.
Go to Startup Apps.
Disable programs you don’t need when Windows starts.
Free Storage Space
Delete:
- Temporary files
- Downloads you no longer need
- Recycle Bin contents
Update Windows
Install the latest Windows updates to improve performance and security.
Scan for Malware
Viruses can consume CPU, RAM, and disk usage.
Run Windows Security regularly.
Uninstall Unused Software
Remove applications you no longer use.
Upgrade to an SSD
If your PC still uses a traditional hard drive, upgrading to an SSD is one of the biggest performance improvements you can make.
Add More RAM
If your system has only 4GB RAM, upgrading to 8GB or 16GB can significantly improve multitasking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid downloading “PC Booster” software that promises unrealistic speed increases. Many such tools provide little benefit and may install unwanted programs.
Similarly, avoid disabling essential Windows services unless you fully understand their purpose.
Frequently Asked Question
Does this feature make Windows faster?
Yes. It reduces resource usage by disabling unnecessary visual effects, which can improve responsiveness, especially on older PCs.
Is it safe to enable?
Yes. It only changes visual settings and does not affect your files or installed programs.
Can I switch back later?
Absolutely. Return to Performance Options and choose Let Windows choose what’s best for my computer or Adjust for best appearance.
Will it improve gaming performance?
It may provide a small improvement by freeing system resources, but it won’t dramatically increase FPS on modern gaming PCs.
Does it work on Windows 10 and Windows 11?
Yes. The feature is available in both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Is this better than installing optimization software?
Yes. Since it’s a built-in Windows feature, it’s safer and more reliable than many third-party optimization tools.
What’s the best upgrade if my PC is still slow?
If optimization doesn’t provide enough improvement, upgrading from an HDD to an SSD and increasing RAM are usually the most effective hardware upgrades.
Conclusion
If your Windows computer feels slow, you don’t always need expensive upgrades or complicated software. The built-in Adjust for Best Performance setting is an easy and safe way to reduce unnecessary visual effects and make your system feel more responsive. Combine this feature with good maintenance habits—such as disabling unnecessary startup apps, keeping Windows updated, removing unused software, and upgrading to an SSD if possible—and you can extend the life of your computer while enjoying a smoother, faster experience.